I have no idea how I misread the first sentence in the description to say "non-sentient" rather than non-sapient as it actually goes. I know the difference between these two, it was just a honest mistake.

Broadly, "sentient" means it can perceive its surroundings and react. "Sapient" means it has a greater awareness, probably including understanding of abstract concepts, complex communication, things like that. This certainly isn't a comprehensive breakdown, of course, but I think it hits the major difference as it pertains to this article.